Alexander Gustafsson: “He wants to fight me, and I want to fight him.”

UFC light heavyweight Alexander Gustafsson’s name recently came out of champion Jon Jones’ mouth as the opponent he’d most like to face in his next match-up and, as expected, “The Mauler” has jumped on the opportunity. After all, the surging Swede was set to fight for top contendership a few months ago before a last second cut cost him the chance.

Gustafsson recently spoke with MMAFighting where he confirmed he is actively preparing for the probability of Jones as his next foe even though he hadn’t actually been sent any sort of official offer.

“He wants to fight me, and I want to fight him,” said Gustafsson point blankly. “I’m really hoping for it, and I think I will get the fight. I think I will be offered a title fight very soon. Nothing is set or signed, though.”

“I really want to fight Jones. It’s on. It’s on. I will do anything I can to make it happen,” the eager competitor concluded. “I hope I can fight him as soon as possible. I’m in full training waiting for some news.”

The 26-year old Gustafsson is seen as a challenge for Jones based on not only skill but a similar frame including a reach only second to Jones’ in the division. He is currently on a six-fight winning streak including solid showings against James Te Huna, Matt Hamill, Thiago Silva, and Mauricio Rua.

The 19-1 Jones is currently in the process of healing up from a gruesome dislocated toe he suffered in his decisive victory over Chael Sonnen at UFC 159. His exact timetable for return is still unknown though he could be back as early as fall.